The ICOM IC-PW2 is a state-of-the-art HF plus 50 MHz linear amplifier designed for serious amateur radio operators who demand robust output, high efficiency, and full-duty cycle operation.
As a flagship amplifier in ICOM’s lineup, the IC-PW2 pairs perfectly with modern transceivers, additionally, they deliver up to 1 kW of clean, stable RF power. Because it employs cutting-edge LDMOS technology, it offers outstanding performance, reliability, and ease of use in demanding contest or DX environments.
Overview of the Amplifier
At its core, the IC-PW2 is an all-mode, solid-state linear amplifier covering HF bands and the 50 MHz band. Unlike older tube amplifiers, this unit uses modern LDMOS FETs, which allow full-duty cycle operation with minimal maintenance. Therefore, operators benefit from consistent high output without the warm-up times or fragility of vacuum tubes.
The amplifier’s sleek design integrates seamlessly with ICOM transceivers through its dedicated LAN and CI-V interfaces. As a result, band changes and settings are automatic, streamlining station operation and reducing operator workload during fast-paced DXing or contests.
Features and Their Functions
The IC-PW2 is packed with features that make high-power operation simple and safe. Here’s a closer look at each capability:
- 1 kW output power delivers strong, clean signals across HF and 50 MHz bands, enhancing your station’s reach.
- Covers all amateur HF bands plus the 50 MHz (6 meter) band for complete operating flexibility.
- Full-duty cycle operation allows continuous transmission at maximum power, especially crucial for digital modes and contests.
- Advanced LDMOS transistor technology provides high gain, high efficiency, and ruggedness against reflected power.
- Built-in automatic antenna tuner matches a wide range of loads, ensuring maximum power transfer and protecting the amplifier.
- Dual high-speed cooling fans with smart thermal management keep operating temperatures stable during extended QSOs.
- LAN connectivity enables full remote control and integration with ICOM radios and networked stations.
- CI-V interface for direct communication with ICOM transceivers, providing automatic band switching and frequency tracking.
- Multi-protection circuitry guards against over-voltage, over-current, over-drive, high VSWR, and excessive temperatures.
- Intuitive front panel display shows power output, VSWR, operating band, and protection status at a glance.
- Quiet operation due to intelligent fan control that adjusts speed according to temperature, minimizing shack noise.
These features make the IC-PW2 a plug-and-play powerhouse, ensuring high output and safe operation for both casual and competitive operators.
Frequency Coverage and Power Output
The IC-PW2 provides broad band coverage with consistent high power:
- Frequency coverage:
- HF amateur bands: 1.8–30 MHz
- 50 MHz band (6 meters)
- Output power:
- Up to 1,000 Watts PEP, continuous duty for all supported bands
With this output, signals punch through pile-ups and challenging band conditions, giving operators a competitive edge during contests and DXpeditions alike.
Biasing and Efficiency
The amplifier uses a modern LDMOS push-pull design with precise bias control. Unlike traditional bipolar transistor amps, LDMOS devices excel at maintaining linearity with lower heat generation. The IC-PW2 employs active bias circuits to maintain optimal Class AB operation, ensuring clean amplification with minimal distortion.
Because bias adjusts automatically, the amplifier operates efficiently at varying drive levels, conserving energy and producing less waste heat. This careful bias management contributes to its ability to run full duty cycle without thermal stress.
LDMOS Transistors and FET Technology
At the heart of the IC-PW2 lie high-power LDMOS FETs — likely from the NXP or similar high-reliability series widely used in modern commercial and amateur amplifiers. These transistors deliver excellent gain, ruggedness, and a wide safe operating area. Consequently, they tolerate high VSWR events better than older MOSFETs or bipolar designs.
LDMOS FETs handle high voltages and currents gracefully, which is why the IC-PW2 achieves stable high output with excellent IMD performance. Because these devices have robust thermal characteristics, they maintain consistent power even under demanding conditions.
Remote for ICOM IC-PW2: Control with Confidence
The remote control for the ICOM IC-PW2 amplifier offers operators an intuitive, streamlined way to manage high-power HF operation from anywhere in the shack, or even remotely over a network. With this remote, you don’t need to reach for the amplifier itself every time you make an adjustment. Instead, you get fast, responsive control right at your fingertips.
Clear Interface, Simple Operation
To begin with, the remote control features a clear and easy-to-read display. It gives real-time feedback on key parameters like output power, SWR, temperature, and band status. Thanks to its straightforward layout, you can monitor and adjust settings without second-guessing.
Furthermore, the touchscreen interface responds quickly, allowing smooth menu navigation and rapid configuration changes.
Technical Specifications
For operators who love the details, here is a full breakdown:
- Frequency Range: 1.8–30 MHz, 50–54 MHz
- Power Output: Up to 1,000 Watts PEP
- Amplifier Class: AB
- Transistors: High-power LDMOS FETs (push-pull configuration)
- Input Power: Typically 85–100 Watts for full output
- Gain: Approx. 10 dB
- Duty Cycle: 100% for all modes
- Cooling: Dual variable-speed fans with thermal sensors
- Tuner: Built-in automatic antenna tuner
- Interfaces: LAN, CI-V
- Display: Multi-function LCD with output power, band, VSWR, and status indicators
- Protection: Over-drive, over-temperature, over-voltage, over-current, and high SWR
- Power Supply: Requires robust 200–240 V AC mains input (varies by region)
- Dimensions: Approx. 350 × 135 × 400 mm (varies slightly)
- Weight: Around 15–20 kg depending on configuration
These specs highlight the amplifier’s robust design and readiness for continuous high-power operation.
Final Thoughts on ICOM IC-PW2
The ICOM IC-PW2 is a testament to how far modern amplifier technology has come. With its LDMOS design, advanced biasing, smart cooling, and seamless integration with ICOM rigs, it transforms any shack into a powerhouse.
Because of its full-duty cycle rating and intelligent safeguards, operators can focus on working rare DX instead of worrying about equipment limits.